I guess I would really have to look into temp requirements to get a good idea.
As far as the legality of peacock bass, I know a pet store nearby that sells them. Obviously this isnt the most economical way to go about it, but I was thinking, If i kept a tank inside with a small population of what was in the pond, even if the winter got too extreme and got the fish, maybe I could develop breeding pairs inside enough to re-establish?
I just saw online where someone said it was illegal, maybe that pet store didn't get the memo.
Doing some checking on the temp, It says the Peacocks die out at about 60, so even in the warm California winters, they might still get killed.
Do you think the HSB would be enough to control the tilapia?
Also, does anyone know about how nippy they are? I had cichlids in a tank before and i couldn't clean it without them trying to tear my hand off. And I would enjoy swimming in the pond.